Look for what’s good. Actively look for what someone has done well. Compliment what they do that is unique.

The Bible says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8 ESV

This scripture changed my perspective and my ability to work with people. When I became focused on looking for things I could compliment or things I could encourage, I became a more positive person and my relationships with people became more meaningful.

I may be a teacher by nature and a trainer by trade, but the words that come out of my mouth should always encourage, compliment, and strengthen.

A minister once told Mike and me that if you are critical of what people think and do—as if it is a rotten apple and you need to take it away—they will hold onto it because that’s all they know. But if you talk about what is good, healthy, and encouraging—holding out the truth like a good apple—people will drop the rotten apple and grasp the good apple.

I would rather that someone would encourage me, telling me about the good and my potential rather than continually correcting and berating me for every flaw and fault.